The hilarious text is brought to life via a spirited music style, with the singers often given special opportunities to illuminate significant words, thereby adding to the delight and intrigue of this piece.

Master melodist Stroope is at his best with this delightful, charming composition. Set to a Civil War poem, we are implored to “dance for beauty, dance for laughter, dance for love, - soft falls the rain, bare feet dance me home.”

This vibrant, dramatic setting of the famous Walt Whitman poem would make a great concert opener or closer or centerpiece for a concert. A rhythmic piano accompaniment adds great style and substance to the composition, while the singers, at times in unison, deliver a spirited rendering of the text

This could be titled Bach Goes to Mars, the piano part being based on a beloved Bach Prelude. The choir tells the story, while the piano adds drama, at one point taking us “up in the air.” And alas, the ending leaves us a bit suspended, suggesting perhaps that this is not quite done. Unique and special best describe this composition.

This five movement mass, set to the traditional Latin text, is dramatic in its creative approach. Inspired by famous villages in Italy, it reflects their unique beauty with colorful choral writing that builds to the final glorious Agnus Dei.

The poem suggests that one day we may be stars dazzling the sky. Composer Arnesen has created great melodic interest for all as this musical voyage grows from an innocent beginning, builds to a dramatic climax, then leaves us as it began, pensive and quiet. Beautiful best describes this creative piece.

Upbeat and exciting with four rhythmic hands on the keyboard, this would be a bright spot in a program. The brief Latin text, part of a Catholic Easter ceremony, is given festive treatment, ending in a glorious alleluia. This would be a lively opener or closer for a concert.